(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry E. Branstad today accepted the retirement of Larry Noble as commissioner of the Department of Public Safety (DPS), effective on July 5 of this year. Branstad announced his appointment of Noble prior to taking office on January 14, 2011, and Noble has served in this position in the 17 months since.
"It is with regret that I accept Larry's resignation, as he was an exemplary commissioner, and will be missed by all who served with him," said Branstad. "Larry has been a partner in effectively managing the safety needs of Iowans. I am thankful to Larry for his service and dedication to this very consuming job."
Noble announced his retirement to staff members at DPS this morning.
"I have reached a point where I want to spend more time with my family, and balancing the needs of a 7-day-a-week job with personal responsibilities makes that very difficult," said Noble. "This position is in service to all Iowans, and I believe someone else should have the opportunity to balance the rigors of this position. This was not a decision I made lightly, but it is the right decision for both my family and the people of Iowa."
Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds noted the many accomplishments of Noble as DPS commissioner, including:
· Identifying and managing efficiencies while still offering premier performance from the department;
· Improving and strengthening child protection laws;
· Worked with the administration to retain 45 troopers, and working toward ensuring every county has a trooper;
· Offering stricter guidelines and punishment to combat synthetic drugs such as K2 and bath salts,
· Improving the visibility and knowledge of the department throughout the state.
"We are disappointed to see Larry go," said Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds. "Without question, the state of Iowa is a better place thanks to his service. Iowa is seeing the departure of a great public servant, but his family is gaining the benefit of more of his time and attention, which we can all wholly understand.
Branstad announced that Steve Ponsetto will serve as the interim commissioner while a search for Noble's replacement takes place.
# # #
